Housing Hacks for Therapists
How to Find Affordable, Comfortable, and Convenient Housing for Your Travel Assignments
One of the biggest challenges for travel therapists isn’t the paperwork, the licensing, or even learning a new clinic’s EMR system — it’s finding housing that’s affordable, comfortable, and available when you need it.
After helping hundreds of Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Speech-Language Pathologists settle into their assignments, our team at CCI/Elite365 has learned a few tried-and-true housing hacks to make your search smoother.
- Start Your Search Early
The best housing options — especially fully furnished places — can get booked fast, particularly near hospitals or in high-demand cities. As soon as your assignment is confirmed, start browsing options so you’re not left scrambling.
Pro Tip: Even if you don’t book immediately, knowing the going rates will help you spot a good deal when it appears.
- Use Multiple Platforms
Don’t limit yourself to just one housing site. Try:
- Furnished Finder – Popular for travel healthcare professionals.
- Airbnb & Vrbo – Great for flexible, short-term stays.
- Facebook Marketplace & Local Groups – Often overlooked but can yield hidden gems.
- Craigslist (with caution) – Can still be useful for last-minute finds.
- Negotiate Like a Pro
If you’re staying 3 months or longer, many landlords are willing to offer a discounted monthly rate.
- Ask if utilities can be included.
- Offer to pay upfront for part of the stay.
- Point out that you’re a healthcare professional (often seen as a reliable tenant).
- Consider Extended-Stay Hotels
Extended-stay chains often offer discounts for healthcare workers, plus perks like:
- No security deposit
- Weekly housekeeping
- Utilities and Wi-Fi included
They’re not always the most charming, but they can be a hassle-free option if you need flexibility.
- Book Temporary Housing for the First Week
If you’re unfamiliar with the area, rent an extended-stay or hotel for your first week instead of committing sight-unseen to a long-term lease.
- Gives you time to explore neighborhoods.
- Lets you ask co-workers and local contacts for safe, affordable recommendations.
- Reduces the risk of ending up in an inconvenient or unsafe location.
Many travelers find better deals after arriving than they could online.
- Location Matters More Than You Think
The cheapest option isn’t always the best value if it means a long commute, sketchy neighborhood, or inconvenient parking. Consider:
- Commute time (especially during rush hour)
- Safety (check crime maps)
- Proximity to grocery stores, gyms, and coffee shops
- Pack Your “Housing Essentials” Kit
Even furnished places sometimes lack basics. A small box or bin with these items can save you frustration:
- Sharp kitchen knives
- Favorite coffee maker or mug
- Extra towels and linens
- Small toolkit and extension cords
- Think Outside the Box
Some therapists have scored great deals by:
- Renting a room in a fellow traveler’s apartment.
- House-sitting for locals on vacation.
- Using travel nurse/therapist Facebook swap groups.
- Keep Your Recruiter in the Loop
We’ve seen it all — from dream lofts to barely livable crash pads. Your recruiter can often connect you to past travelers who can recommend trusted landlords or complexes.
Final Word
Finding the right housing is a mix of speed, strategy, and resourcefulness. The more you plan ahead and use multiple channels, the easier it will be to land a comfortable spot you’ll actually enjoy coming home to after work.
At CCI, we’re not just here to help you land a great assignment — we want you to thrive while you’re there. Need housing tips for your next placement? We’ve got your back.
📩 Contact us today to start your next adventure with housing peace of mind.
